28 Must-Try Restaurants in Antwerp for Belgian Classics, Brunch, Vegan Eats & More

Looking for the best restaurants in Antwerp? I got you covered!

I’ve eaten my way through Belgium from coast to countryside: fancy restaurants, corner friteries, Sunday markets, you name it.

But if there’s one city where the food scene really embodies the best of Belgium, it’s Antwerp.

I actually studied here, so I’ve had years to explore the restaurants, cafés, and hidden spots across the city. Antwerp’s restaurants reflect the people who live here: multicultural, creative, and deeply into food.

In this guide, I’ve rounded up the places I keep coming back to, plus some newer spots that are worth the hype!

Fast Facts for Eating Out in Antwerp

• Local specialties: Stoofvlees, mosselen met friet (moules frites), paling in ‘t groen (eel in the green), Antwerpse handjes (butter cookies or chocolates shaped like little hands), bolleke beer from De Koninck.
• Tipping: Not expected, but appreciated for good service. Rounding up is common.
• Dining hours: Lunch typically from 12 PM to 2 PM, dinner from 6 PM onward. Many kitchens close between lunch and dinner.
• Reservations: Recommended for popular places, especially weekends. Some casual eateries don’t take bookings.
• Languages: Menus are often in Dutch, sometimes with English or French. Nearly everyone speaks English.

Student-Friendly and Budget Eats

Antwerp has no shortage of good food at student prices.

Some of the best meals I’ve had in the city were under €15, and they didn’t come from a chain or microwave.

From cozy cantinas to cult-favorite kebab joints, these spots are perfect when you’re short on cash but still want something tasty and filling.

🍽️ Beni Falafel

Beni Falafel is a rite of passage if you’ve spent any time as a student in Antwerp.

The setup is simple: pick a pita or wrap, and load it up with freshly fried falafel and a colorful mix of toppings like red cabbage, tabouleh, pickles, and creamy hummus.

Their garlic sauce is the stuff of legend, and the crispy slices of fried eggplant are non-negotiable. 

The place itself is tiny and usually packed, but the line moves quickly. It’s one of those places where you always get more flavor than you pay for, and even meat-lovers walk away satisfied.

Address: Lange Leemstraat 188, 2018 Antwerp
Hours: Mon to Sat, 11:30 AM to 9:00 PM
Price: Falafel pita from €5
Dietary info: Vegetarian and vegan options available

🍽️ Tandoori-Pasta

This hole-in-the-wall near the station may not look like much from the outside, but it’s a full-on comfort food haven.

Tandoori-Pasta’s menu blends South Asian classics with European fast food, which sounds strange until you try it.

Their chicken biryani is smoky, spicy, and generous in portion. Butter chicken comes in a thick, rich sauce that soaks perfectly into naan or rice. 

And yes, the masala pasta—a spicy, creamy twist on penne—is a cult favorite for a reason. It’s ideal for a quick meal before catching a train or after a long day of classes when you just want flavor and carbs.

Address: Verschansingstraat 61A, 2000 Antwerpen
Hours: Daily, 11:30 AM to 10:30 PM
Price: Mains from €7–€11
Dietary info: Halal, vegetarian options available

🍽️ Fritkot Max

If you’re going to try Belgian fries, you might as well start with one of Antwerp’s most iconic fritkots.

Fritkot Max has been dishing out crispy, double-fried potatoes on Groenplaats for generations.

It’s not a fancy setup—just good fries, done right, with your pick of sauces and side snacks. 

The samurai sauce (a spicy mayo blend) is a must-try if you like heat.

Pair your fries with a frikandel, a classic Belgian sausage, or go veggie with their meat-free croquettes.

The casual and no-frills vibe makes it easy to pop in for a quick bite between errands or sightseeing.

Address: Groenplaats 12, 2000 Antwerp
Hours: Daily, 11:30 AM to 9:00 PM
Price: Fries from €3.50, snacks from €2.50
Dietary info: Vegetarian options available

🍽️ EXKi

EXKi is one of those spots you end up relying on when you’re short on time but still want to eat something that feels fresh and nourishing.

It’s a Belgian chain, yes, but don’t let that turn you off.

They offer colorful salads, warm seasonal soups, open-faced sandwiches (tartines), and great coffee with fair-trade credentials. 

The location on Frankrijklei is clean and calm, with plenty of space to eat in or grab something to go.

It’s especially good for vegetarians and anyone looking for gluten-free options, which aren’t always easy to find in traditional Belgian cafés.

Address: Frankrijklei 59, 2000 Antwerp
Hours: Mon to Fri, 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM
Price: Salads and tartines from €7–€10
Dietary info: Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available

Local Specialties and Belgian Classics

Antwerp might be a global city, but its food scene still proudly embraces tradition.

You’ll find hearty stews, golden croquettes, mussels with fries, and comforting dishes that have been part of local menus for generations.

These are the spots where Belgian classics are still very much alive—and still very worth ordering!

🍽️ Ciro’s

Ciro’s is one of those rare spots that locals have loved for decades.

This old-school brasserie has been serving classic Belgian dishes since 1962, with white tablecloths, red banquettes, and a no-nonsense vibe that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a different era.

The menu is full of time-honored hits: steak frites, shrimp croquettes, and one of the city’s best versions of vol-au-vent.

It’s not fancy, but everything is well-prepared and portioned with generosity in mind. If you want a proper taste of Antwerp tradition, start here.

Address: Amerikalei 6, 2000 Antwerp
Hours: Tue to Sat, 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM and 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Price: Mains from €18 to €28
Dietary info: Classic Belgian fare, limited vegetarian options

🍽️ De Arme Duivel

This small, no-nonsense eatery is the kind of place where locals send you when you ask for “real Belgian food.”

De Arme Diuvel’s menu sticks to the essentials: stoofvlees, vol-au-vent, rabbit with prunes, and a few changing specials depending on the season.

The portions are generous, and the cooking is solid—nothing fancy, just comforting and well-executed.

It’s tucked away near Theaterplein and feels like one of those places that hasn’t changed in decades.

No elaborate plating or Instagram tricks—just old-school Belgian food at fair prices. It fills up quickly at lunch, especially on market days, so come early or make a reservation.

Address: Sint-Paulusstraat 8, 2000 Antwerp
Hours: Mon to Fri, 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM
Price: Mains from €14 to €18
Dietary info: Meat-heavy menu, vegetarian starter available

🍽️ Elfde Gebod

If you like your beer and meat stews served under a ceiling of hanging religious statues, this is your spot.

Elfde Gebod (The Eleventh Commandment) is a classic Belgian brasserie right next to the cathedral, and while it draws some tourists, the food holds its own.

The stoofvlees is rich and dark, served with golden fries and a side of mustard, just as it should be.

The vibe is theatrical—dim lighting, stained glass, and walls packed with vintage decor—but it never tips into gimmick. It’s a fun spot to bring visitors, and the beer list is long and local.

Address: Torfbrug 10, 2000 Antwerp
Hours: Daily, 11:30 AM to 10:00 PM
Price: Mains from €18 to €22
Dietary info: Meat and fish focused, some vegetarian options

🍽️ De Bomma

De Bomma is all about nostalgic, home-style Belgian cooking. The name literally means “grandma,” and that’s exactly the vibe they’re going for.

The menu is full of comfort food classics like stoofvlees, meatballs in tomato sauce, and creamy vol-au-vent, along with rotating daily specials.

You can even mix and match your choice of sides, sauces, and meats, which makes it feel just a bit more personal than your average brasserie.

The dining room is cozy and inviting, with checkered tablecloths and vintage portraits lining the walls.

It’s centrally located near the cathedral, so it’s a convenient stop during a day of sightseeing.

Address: Suikerrui 16, 2000 Antwerp
Hours: Daily, 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Price: Mains from €16 to €24
Dietary info: Vegetarian options available

Vegan and Vegetarian-Friendly Restaurants

If you’re fully plant-based or just looking to cut back on meat, Antwerp’s vegan and vegetarian scene has grown fast in the past few years.

What used to be a challenge—finding something more than a goat cheese salad—has become one of the city’s biggest strengths.

From creative veggie burgers to jackfruit wraps and spicy tofu bowls, Antwerp’s green eateries don’t hold back on flavor.

🍽️ De Broers van Julienne

De Broers van Julienne has been a vegetarian mainstay in Antwerp long before plant-based eating was cool.

Located just south of the city center, it’s known for colorful plates packed with vegetables, grains, fresh herbs, and house-made sauces.

The daily specials often include quiches, hearty stews, and soups with crusty bread.

The interior is charmingly retro, and the garden terrace is a peaceful place to eat when the weather’s nice.

Portions are generous, everything feels wholesome without being bland, and the staff are always happy to walk you through the day’s options.

Address: Kasteelpleinstraat 45, 2000 Antwerp
Hours: Tue to Sat, 11:30 AM to 8:00 PM
Price: Mains from €12 to €16
Dietary info: Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options available

🍽️ Humm

Humm is a casual vegan spot tucked near the Meir, offering Middle Eastern-style bowls and wraps that hit the sweet spot between fresh and filling.

Their hummus is ultra-smooth, topped with everything from roasted vegetables to crunchy chickpeas, while warm pita wraps come stuffed with seasonal greens, tangy pickles, and plenty of garlic sauce.

It’s fast, flavorful, and great for a quick lunch or early dinner. The setup is counter service with a few indoor seats, making it ideal for solo diners or small groups. Even carnivores tend to walk out full and impressed.

Address: Schrijnwerkersstraat 9, 2000 Antwerp
Hours: Tue to Sun, 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Price: Bowls and wraps from €9 to €13
Dietary info: Fully vegan

🍽️ Camion

Camion brings a bistro twist to vegan cooking, with a short but seasonal menu that feels both comforting and creative.

Dishes like lentil ragu lasagna, miso-glazed eggplant, or their smoky mushroom tacos are deeply flavorful, with textures that satisfy even the most skeptical omnivores.

The space is warm and low-lit, with thoughtful service and a relaxed pace that makes it perfect for dinner dates or catching up with friends.

Their dessert menu changes often, but if there’s anything involving chocolate or cashew cream, go for it! It’s a local favorite for a reason.

Address: Paleisstraat 7, 2018 Antwerp
Hours: Wed to Sat, 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Price: Mains from €14 to €18
Dietary info: Fully vegan

🍽️ Lento

Lento is the kind of place where everything feels a little brighter: natural light, cheerful staff, and food that makes healthy eating feel indulgent.

Their brunch-leaning menu includes fluffy chickpea pancakes, beet hummus toast, grain bowls, and daily specials that rotate based on what’s fresh.

You’ll also find smoothies, golden lattes, and dairy-free desserts that taste as good as they look.

It’s a top pick for lunch with friends or solo work sessions with a laptop and oat milk cappuccino. The vibe is relaxed but stylish, and the portions are generous without being heavy.

Address: Lombardenvest 19, 2000 Antwerp
Hours: Tue to Sat, 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Price: Bowls and specials from €11 to €15
Dietary info: Vegetarian and vegan, gluten-free options available

Trendy Brunch and Coffee Spots

Antwerp knows how to do brunch. If you’re into runny eggs, sourdough toast, loaded pancakes, or oat milk lattes, there’s no shortage of stylish spots to ease into your day.

And because this city takes coffee seriously, you’ll find no end of places serving up third-wave espresso and cold brew with a side of minimalist interiors.

🍽️ Normo

Normo is a favorite among Antwerp’s coffee crowd, and with good reason. They roast their own beans and take a serious-but-not-snobby approach to brewing.

Espresso is the focus, but there’s also great filter coffee, cold brew, and seasonal drinks for when you want something different.

The vibe is warm and pared back: brick walls, big windows, a bit of background music.

It’s laptop-friendly without feeling like a coworking space, and the baristas know their stuff.

Grab a seat by the front if you want to people-watch, or head toward the back if you’re staying a while.

Address: Minderbroedersrui 30, 2000 Antwerp
Hours: Mon to Sat, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Price: Coffee from €3, pastries and small snacks available
Dietary info: Plant-based milks available

🍽️ Tinsel

Tinsel has that “lazy Sunday” energy, even on a Tuesday.

The menu leans toward modern comfort food: sourdough with smashed avocado and dukkah, fluffy American-style pancakes, poached eggs with spiced sweet potatoes, and excellent homemade cakes.

Coffee is from local roasters, and the seasonal lemonades are a nice bonus.

It’s cozy but often busy, especially on weekends, so come early or expect a wait.

The interior is soft and bright, with lots of wood, pastel tones, and friendly service. Whether you’re with a friend or on your own, it’s the kind of place where brunch just feels better.

Address: Vleminckstraat 11, 2000 Antwerp
Hours: Wed to Sun, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Price: Brunch mains from €10 to €16
Dietary info: Vegetarian and vegan options available

🍽️ Caffènation

Caffènation is where you go when you want top-tier coffee without the fuss.

It’s one of Antwerp’s OG specialty coffee spots, and they’ve been roasting and innovating long before it became trendy.

Expect carefully sourced beans, no-nonsense service, and drinks that are consistently excellent.

The space has a low-key, urban vibe: industrial décor, mismatched chairs, and a steady stream of regulars. You won’t find a full brunch menu here, but there are sweet snacks and pastries to tide you over. If you care more about what’s in the cup than the Instagram aesthetic, this is your place.

Address: Mechelsesteenweg 16, 2000 Antwerp
Hours: Mon to Sat, 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM; Sun, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Price: Coffee from €2.80, small snacks from €2
Dietary info: Plant-based milks available

🍽️ Charlie’s

Charlie’s is one of those places where everything—from the cappuccino foam art to the scrambled eggs—just feels like it’s made with love.

The menu balances brunch staples like fluffy pancakes and eggs Benedict with health-conscious bowls, house-made granola, and pressed juices.

It’s cozy and inviting, with vintage furniture, potted plants, and a menu written in friendly chalkboard scrawl.

There’s usually a wait on weekends, but it’s worth it. Great for catching up with friends or sinking into a window seat solo with a book and a flat white.

Address: Volkstraat 66, 2000 Antwerp
Hours: Tue to Sun, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Price: Brunch mains from €10 to €16
Dietary info: Vegetarian and vegan options available

International Flavors

Antwerp’s diversity shines through in its food. From Little Morocco to tucked-away Thai restaurants, this is a city where global flavors feel local.

These are the places to go when you’re craving something bold, different, or just not Belgian for once.

🍽️ ViaVia Reiscafé

This one’s close to my heart and the one place is always go back to. ViaVia is a traveler’s hub, community space, bar, and live music venue rolled into one.

The menu draws from all over the world: Moroccan tagines, Thai curries, Latin American rice bowls, and hearty veggie stews.

The food is warm and filling, and while it’s globally inspired, everything feels grounded and homemade.

The leafy courtyard out back is one of the nicest places to sit when the weather’s good.

Inside, it’s cozy and eclectic, with maps, books, and conversation starters everywhere. It’s perfect for relaxed dinners, long chats, or just lingering over a beer.

Address: Wolstraat 43, 2000 Antwerp
Hours: Mon to Sat, 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Price: Mains from €13 to €16
Dietary info: Vegetarian options available

🍽️ Msemen Corner

Located near Antwerp’s famed Carnotstraat, Msemen Corner specializes in one thing and does it ridiculously well.

Msemen are Moroccan griddled flatbreads, crispy on the outside and soft inside, usually stuffed with savory fillings like cheese, spiced meat, or olives.

You order at the counter and eat with your hands, preferably while standing outside with the locals.

It’s a tiny place with huge flavor and a steady line of regulars. Perfect for a snack, light lunch, or a first taste of North African street food culture.

Bonus: the mint tea here is strong, sweet, and very real.

Address: Dambruggestraat 154, 2060 Antwerp
Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Price: Filled msemen from €4 to €6
Dietary info: Vegetarian and halal options available

🍽️ Mampoko

Mampoko does breakfast, lunch, and dinner but their Indonesian-inspired dishes are what keep people coming back.

Satay skewers with peanut sauce, nasi goreng with crispy shallots, and a killer rendang are all on the menu, alongside some more Belgian-leaning options if you’re dining with a picky eater.

The space feels like an old-school brasserie with a tropical twist: white tiles, wood paneling, and plenty of character.

It’s always buzzing, especially on weekends, so a reservation is a good idea.

Portions are generous, and the balance of spice and comfort makes it easy to come back again and again.

Address: Amerikalei 8, 2000 Antwerp
Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Price: Mains from €14 to €20
Dietary info: Meat, fish, and vegetarian options

🍽️ Sombat

Sombat is the kind of low-key Thai restaurant you only hear about through word of mouth, but those who know it, love it!

It’s tucked away in a residential part of town, with a small dining room and a focus on authentic flavors: tangy tom yum, creamy green curry, and pad thai that’s actually balanced.

Everything’s cooked to order, and you can choose your spice level, which is handy if you like a little kick.

The service is personal and warm, and while it’s nothing flashy, it’s easily one of the best Thai spots in the city.

Address: Draakstraat 34, 2018 Antwerp
Hours: Tue to Sat, 5:30 PM to 10:00 PM
Price: Mains from €13 to €18
Dietary info: Vegetarian options available

Date Nights and Romantic Dining

Antwerp is a city that knows how to slow down.

Between its candlelit brown cafés, cozy bistros, and design-forward wine bars, it’s the perfect place to settle into a long, unhurried meal.

These are the kinds of restaurants where you can actually hear each other talk, share plates without stress, and linger over dessert.

🍽️ Veranda

If you want a place that quietly impresses, go to Veranda.

Tucked in a renovated warehouse just outside the city center, it offers a modern tasting menu that changes regularly, focused on seasonal and often local ingredients.

The food is clever but not pretentious: roasted celeriac with miso, duck with fermented plum, or smoked trout in dashi.

The dining room has a relaxed, Scandinavian feel: clean lines, natural wood, and an open kitchen that adds a sense of theater to the night.

It’s ideal if you want a refined experience without white tablecloths or whisper-level conversations.

Address: Lange Lobroekstraat 34, 2060 Antwerp
Hours: Wed to Sat, 6:30 PM to 11:00 PM
Price: Tasting menu from €70
Dietary info: Vegetarian version available by request

🍽️ Le John

Le John manages to strike that sweet spot between rustic and polished.

Housed in a former blacksmith’s shop, the restaurant keeps some of that industrial charm but softens it with moody lighting and intimate seating.

The menu is French-leaning with modern touches: beef tartare with yuzu, roasted cod with fennel, and seasonal veggie dishes that aren’t just filler.

It’s a popular pick for romantic dinners, but the vibe is relaxed enough for a quiet Tuesday night too.

Service is attentive without hovering, and the wine list is excellent—don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations!

Address: Kloosterstraat 52, 2000 Antwerp
Hours: Tue to Sat, 6:30 PM to 11:00 PM
Price: Mains from €22 to €30
Dietary info: Vegetarian options available

🍽️ Vitrin

Small, stylish, and always candlelit, Vitrin feels like a secret you’re happy to share.

The menu isn’t huge, but what they do, they do well: tender meat dishes, vibrant salads, and comfort-heavy sides like truffle mash or grilled polenta.

It leans bistro but with flair.

It’s especially great for a low-key date night when you want to eat well and linger without feeling rushed.

Tables are close but not cramped, and the warm interior makes it feel like you’ve stepped out of the city for a while.

Address: Marnixplaats 7, 2000 Antwerp
Hours: Tue to Sat, 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM
Price: Mains from €18 to €24
Dietary info: Meat, fish, and vegetarian options

🍽️ The Jane

Dining at The Jane is a full-on experience. Set in a converted military chapel with soaring ceilings and stained glass windows, it’s dramatic in the best way.

The two Michelin stars don’t hurt, either. Expect a multi-course tasting menu with stunning presentation, local ingredients, and inventive flavor combinations.

Despite the setting, the service is warm and relaxed, not stiff.

It’s not a casual night out, but if you’re celebrating something or just want to be wowed, it’s unforgettable.

Reservations book out months ahead, so plan accordingly.

Address: Paradeplein 1, 2018 Antwerp
Hours: Thu to Sun, 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM; Wed to Sat, 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM
Price: Tasting menu from €255
Dietary info: Vegetarian option available by request, advance notice required

Hidden Gems and Neighborhood Favorites

Some of Antwerp’s best food isn’t in the busy squares or on flashy Instagram feeds.

It’s tucked into side streets, quiet corners, and unassuming buildings. These are the spots locals return to again and again, where the vibe is casual and the food is just right.

🍴Het Gebaar

Het Gebaar is a gem hidden in plain sight. Tucked in the Botanical Garden, it feels worlds away from the city bustle.

Chef Roger van Damme is known for his intricate, dessert-inspired creations, but the savory menu holds its own with refined Belgian dishes and seasonal ingredients.

The terrace is a dream on sunny days, and the elegant, glass-walled dining room is great year-round.

It’s perfect for a romantic lunch or special occasion, especially if you want something memorable without the formality of a full tasting menu.

Address: Leopoldstraat 24, 2000 Antwerp
Hours: Tue to Sat, 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM
Price: Mains from €24 to €32
Dietary info: Vegetarian options available

🍴 Buchbar

Buchbar feels like someone turned their dream reading nook into a café—and then added brunch.

This small spot in the Zuid neighborhood doubles as a café and bookshop, with shelves of novels, cookbooks, and essays lining the walls.

They serve seasonal breakfast and lunch dishes: rye bread with herbed cheese, roasted veg salads, eggs with labneh and za’atar.

It’s a quiet and creative space with a thoughtful menu and strong coffee. Ideal for solo mornings, catch-ups with friends, or pretending to write your novel while nibbling on carrot cake.

Address: Scheldestraat 79, 2000 Antwerp
Hours: Tue to Sat, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Price: Breakfast and lunch from €9 to €14
Dietary info: Vegetarian options available

🍴 Little Bún

In a small side street just off the busy shopping area, Little Bún serves Vietnamese comfort food with serious flavor.

The space is tiny, and the menu is short—bún bowls, bánh mì, spring rolls—but everything’s made with care.

Their lemongrass tofu is crispy perfection, and the pickled vegetables are sharp and bright.

It’s a great place for a casual lunch or a quick early dinner, especially if you’re craving something fresh, fragrant, and light.

You might miss it if you’re not looking closely, but it’s worth finding.

Address: Reyndersstraat 17, 2000 Antwerp
Hours: Tue to Sat, 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Price: Mains from €11 to €14
Dietary info: Vegan and vegetarian options available

🍴 Bar Vert

Bar Vert is the kind of neighborhood café every city should have: friendly staff, strong coffee, better-than-expected food, and a sunny terrace when the weather cooperates.

Located near Dageraadplaats in Zurenborg, it’s a favorite among locals for slow weekend brunches or a midday work break.

The menu focuses on healthy-ish plates: colorful grain bowls, poached eggs, open-faced sandwiches, and cakes that feel homemade in the best way.

It’s laid-back and never too loud, making it a great choice if you want to eat well without the fuss.

Address: Grotehondstraat 64, 2018 Antwerp
Hours: Mon to Fri, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM; Sat to Sun, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Price: Mains from €10 to €15
Dietary info: Vegetarian and vegan options available

The Final Bite and Where to Go Next

That’s the thing about eating in Antwerp: just when you think you’ve tried it all, someone tells you about a tiny Eritrean place near the station or a perfect croissant tucked behind a bike shop.

This is a city that rewards curiosity, where even a quick coffee run might turn into your new favorite lunch spot.

Whether you came for the fries, the falafel, or the fancy tasting menus, there’s plenty more to explore.

Let your stomach lead the way, wander a little outside the center, and don’t be afraid to ask locals what they love! Antwerp’s food scene is alive, and it’s always changing.